Although Aston Villa have a strong starting XI, they are lacking depth in midfield and could do with strengthening the engine room now that the January transfer window is open.
Dean Smith has Marvelous Nakamba, Douglas Luiz, Ross Barkley, John McGinn, Conor Hourihane, Henri Lansbury and Jacob Ramsey, but Lansbury was left out of Villa’s Premier League squad while Nakamba and Hourihane have been on the periphery this season, so another midfield addition might be on the cards.
Calciomercato claimed [via La Lazio Siamo Noi] that Villa are looking at Sivert Mannsverk and may have to battle Ajax, Arsenal, Bologna, Brighton and Lazio for his signature. The 18-year-old has made 47 appearances in all competitions for Sogndal IL, scoring five goals and supplying six assists.
The Norwegian teenager graduated from the club academy, was promoted to the first team in 2019 and has captained the side already.
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It remains to be seen whether Villa can see off so much competition for the rising star, but at least they won’t have to break the bank for him.
Calciomercato claimed [via La Lazio Siamo Noi] that the 18-year-old is valued at around €2m (£1.8m), so he could be available for a snip. His contract at the Fosshaugane Campus has just shy of two years to run, so Sogndal are in a strong negotiating position.
